August 24, 2011

Brooking back and ready to play, not worried about role

Veteran Keith Brooking is back on the practice field after being sideline since the first week of camp with a strained hamstring.

But there remains a question of whether he will be back in his regular role as a starter next Bradie James.

Second year man Sean Lee has played well in his absence and bidding for a larger role.

All coach Jason Garrett has confirmed is that the 14-year veteran Brooking will remain on the roster, smaller role or not

Brooking has served as a mentor to Lee and says not worried about it. He's just glad to be back playing football again.

“I think it’ll all work itself out,” Brooking said. “I think we have three really good inside linebackers that can play this game. I’m not worrying myself about that at all or thinking about that. You come out here every day and get the most out of each day, work your tail off, put your blinders on. You start worrying about stuff like that in this league and what’s going to happen and what they’re thinking, you’re going to drive yourself crazy. I really, honestly do not think about that stuff at all. It’s going to take care of itself just fine, and I’ll be happy with whatever role they decide for me to have on this football team.”

The Cowboys are easing Brooking back into action. His reps are being limited practice and he has yet to be given the green light to play in Saturday's preseason game against the Vikings.

“I think these guys know what they’re going to get with me as a player,” Brooking said. “I’m at the point in my career where obviously I’m a competitor -- I want to be out there, I want to be helping my team by making plays -- but whatever my role is, I’ll accept it with everything.